National Guard tears down Va. drug homes

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PETERSBURG, Va. (WTVR) - Members of the Virginia National Guard are helping to tear down homes deemed drug houses by Petersburg Police. Fifteen home are being torn down between Aug. 19 and Aug. 30 as part of Operation Renew.

"The program provides engineer assets to assist communities in reclaiming control of known drug trafficking areas by tearing down derelict structures associated with drug trade," the city said in a statement. "Operation Renew enhances military readiness by allowing Army and Air Force National Guard members to utilize their equipment and exercise their military specialties in a real world mission. "

Soldiers from Powhatan and Virginia Beach are taking part in the mission, the city said.